The year 2020 is about to end, and thankfully we now have a covid-19 vaccine. Britain became the first country to approve Pfizer vaccine for covid-19. And now several countries, including the UAE, have started using this vaccine for the residents. Dubai has already begun the first phase of the vaccination last week by focusing on those 60 and older, people with chronic medical conditions, those with disabilities and frontline workers. And the emirate plans to vaccinate 70 per cent of the population with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, by the end of 2021. This update comes under its ‘herd immunity’ plan. The statement was issued by a health official, and it said that vaccination would be free of charge for citizens and residents.
Also read: Dubai Rolls Out Pfizer Vaccine, Launches Free Vaccine Drive For Its Citizens
The Second Phase Of The Pfizer Vaccine Will Begin In April 2021
Speaking about this programme to a leading daily, Farida al-Khaja, chairwoman of Dubai’s steering committee for Covid-19 vaccinations said,
“We are targeting to vaccinate approximately 70 per cent of the population of Dubai by the end of 2021. We want to reach the herd immunity that is required.”
Also read: Oman Reopens Borders As Vaccinations In The Country Begin
China’s Sinopharm Vaccine Is Available For Residents Across the UAE
While the first phase is majorly for selected people, the second phase, which will begin in April, would be open to everyone. The UAE’s health ministry has registered the Pfizer-BioNTech shot for emergency use. When it comes to the vaccine, UAE was the first country outside China to use Sinopharm vaccine to the public. It also mentioned that the vaccine was 86 per cent effective. However, when it comes Pfizer vaccine, it is used by varied countries across the world and is found to be 95 per cent effective.
Also read: Covid 19: UAE Slashes PCR Test Price To AED 85 From AED 150
While the Pfizer vaccine is available to select people, the Sinopharm vaccine continues to be distributed in Abu Dhabi and at Dubai’s Parks and Resorts field hospital. It is available for any resident of the UAE, including Dubai residents with Abu Dhabi visas. Meanwhile, here’s where you can get a shot for the covid-19 vaccine.